39325, Collinsville, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39325, Collinsville, Mississippi is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.40 percent of residents in 39325 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Anderson Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.92 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Collinsville, MS (ZIP Code 39325)**

The diagnosis of breast cancer, a life-altering event, necessitates swift and reliable access to specialized medical care. For residents of Collinsville, Mississippi (ZIP code 39325), the journey to comprehensive breast cancer treatment involves navigating the complexities of transportation. This write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options. It aims to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and possibilities for those facing this critical health concern.

The very essence of healthcare access is inextricably linked to the availability of transportation. The ability to reach medical appointments, whether for diagnosis, treatment, or follow-up care, is paramount. This is especially true for breast cancer patients, who often require frequent visits to medical facilities. Understanding the transportation landscape is therefore crucial for anyone considering moving to Collinsville or currently residing there.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The primary mode of transportation in Collinsville, as in many rural areas, is the personal vehicle. The nearest major medical facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer services are located in Meridian, MS, approximately 15 miles to the east. The drive to these facilities, including Anderson Regional Medical Center and Rush Health Systems, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Meridian.

The primary route to Meridian is via **Highway 19**, a major north-south thoroughfare. Traffic flow on Highway 19 is generally moderate, but congestion can occur during peak commuting hours, potentially extending travel times. Alternative routes, such as **County Road 54** and **Highway 493**, offer options, but they often involve rural roads and may add to the overall travel time.

For residents in the northern or southern parts of Collinsville, the drive time may vary. Those living further from Highway 19 may face longer travel times to reach the main arteries leading to Meridian. Therefore, prospective residents should consider their proximity to major roadways when evaluating the feasibility of healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Collinsville are extremely limited. The area lacks a comprehensive public transit system, and bus services are virtually nonexistent. This severely restricts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those who are elderly, disabled, or unable to drive.

The absence of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents. This underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions, such as ride-sharing, medical transport, and reliance on family and friends.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in Collinsville, but their availability can be sporadic and dependent on driver availability. The reliance on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be problematic, as it may be difficult to secure a ride at short notice or during off-peak hours.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Several medical transport companies operate in the Meridian area, including MedRide and First Call Medical Transport. However, the cost of these services can be significant, and insurance coverage may vary.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of transportation options is paramount. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems and medical facilities provide accessible services. However, the limited availability of public transit in Collinsville poses a significant challenge for individuals with disabilities.

When considering healthcare access, it is essential to inquire about the ADA accessibility of medical facilities and transportation services. This includes ensuring that facilities have ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms, and that transportation services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Collinsville, MS, reflects the multifaceted nature of healthcare access. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The proximity to medical facilities offering breast cancer services.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence or absence of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability and reliability of these services.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The accessibility of transportation and medical facilities for individuals with disabilities.

Based on these factors, the Breast Cancer Score for Collinsville is moderate, with significant areas for improvement. While the drive to Meridian is relatively short, the lack of public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. Medical transport services offer a viable option, but the cost can be a barrier.

**Moving to Collinsville: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Collinsville, it is crucial to carefully evaluate the implications for healthcare access. Those with breast cancer or a history of the disease should factor in the following:

* **Proximity to Medical Facilities:** Choose a residence that is conveniently located near major roadways leading to Meridian.
* **Transportation Options:** Assess the availability of personal transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify insurance coverage for medical transport services.
* **Support Network:** Build a strong support network of family, friends, or caregivers who can provide transportation assistance.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Road Ahead**

Healthcare access in Collinsville, particularly for breast cancer patients, presents both challenges and opportunities. While the drive to Meridian is relatively manageable, the lack of public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport. By carefully considering these factors and planning accordingly, residents of Collinsville can navigate the complexities of healthcare access and ensure timely access to the vital care they need. The journey to recovery is a challenging one, and having reliable transportation is a critical component of that journey.